Teachers across Nigeria have renewed calls for better welfare, improved working conditions, and the full implementation of the 65-year retirement age policy as the country joined the world to mark the 2025 World Teachers’ Day.
At various events nationwide, members of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) lamented poor remuneration, inadequate facilities, and the slow pace of policy implementation, which they say continue to weaken the nation’s education system.
World Teachers’ Day is celebrated globally every October 5 to honour educators’ contributions to national development.
According to NUT data, 16 states, including Lagos, Oyo, Kwara, Kaduna, Ogun, and Rivers, are yet to implement the Harmonised Retirement Age for Teachers in Nigeria Act, 2022, which allows teachers to retire at 65 years of age or after 40 years of service.
In Kwara State, NUT Chairman Comrade Yusuf Agboola criticised the government for not adopting the 65-year policy and rural allowances but commended regular salary payments and the recruitment of over 3,000 teachers.
In Oyo State, NUT Chairman Comrade Raji Ismail praised Governor Seyi Makinde for prompt salary payments, new recruitments, and teacher promotions but urged more investment in infrastructure and training.
NUT National President Comrade Audu Amba called on governments to increase funding for education and invest in teachers, warning that “without deliberate investment in teachers, the future of education is at risk.”
Some governors, including Edo’s Monday Okpebholo and Ogun’s Dapo Abiodun, lauded teachers for their dedication and promised improved working conditions.
As Nigeria marked World Teachers’ Day 2025, the message remained clear, teachers are demanding action, not promises, to restore dignity and motivation to the profession that shapes every other.
